I mentioned a few of my favorite books in my previous blog (you can read it <a title=”Read Greatness here” href=”https://candygibbs.com/greatness” target=”_blank”>here</a>). I relate to these authors because they implore us to stop making excuses and be great!
<h2>Fair warning, this is a “No Coddle Zone” as Randy Pausch might say.</h2>
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As men we all struggle with greatness. I have made many mistakes in life, as I am sure we all have.  I have done some things right and I have made some mistakes.  I would like to mention what has worked for me and the wisdom I have learned from others.  The Last Lecture is a book I have read and now have on audio. This should be required reading for all family men in America.  This year I will listen to the book for the third year.  I have challenged myself to listen to this Lecture once each year.   <span ><strong>It is a great reminder that, as men, we need to STOP complaining and work harder…Life ain’t always fair</strong></span>. As my father-in-law says, “Fair is where you go to buy cotton candy and ride the ferris wheel.” We need to get back to the fundamentals that we were taught in organized sports; team work, perseverance, how to deal with adversity, and hard work pays off.

For the remainder of this post, as well as the next, I will succinctly state some examples of  how to be great in daily living.
<ul>
<li><span >Love people.</span>  Look for the best in people. If you wait long enough, most people will show their good side. Everyone has faults.</li>
<li><span >Manage your time.</span>  You only have so much of it. The clock is ticking. Time is finite. Make positive impacts with the time you have. Have a strong understanding of who you are and what you care about, this will help you manage your time.</li>
<li><span >”Luck is indeed where preparation meets opportunity.”</span> I love the scene in the movie, “Miracle” when the coach tells his players…”great moments come from great opportunities.”  Create your own luck. Create your own opportunities. Work hard and skill yourself up.  There are no shortcuts.</li>
<li><span >Duty, Honor, Country</span>…these are not just the qualities of our military but should be the qualities of us all. Serve your community, keep yourself above reproach, and love your country. Don’t be selfish.  Everyone needs to contribute to the common good.</li>
<li>Not all of us won the “Parent Lottery.”  <span >Stop whining</span> about the other guy who has it easier than you. We all have challenges and hurdles we have to overcome. No Excuses!</li>
<li><span >Let go of your rebellious spirit.</span> Yes, there are wiser and more experienced mentors around you…listen to them. We don’t like to admit it but we do depend on others! Deal with a certain amount of criticism, it makes you better! Rebellion is a demonic spirit that will keep you from your greatness.</li>
<li><span >Work well with others.</span> Who cares how smart you are if you can’t work with others it does not matter.  Leave your Ego at the door.</li>
</ul>
I have a few more to share.  In the meantime, greatness is the goal and it starts today.  See you next week!!

Strength and Honor,

Brian